Business Principles

1. Customer service must come first.
Our goals are to provide first-rate customer service, easy access to data when needed, and a proactive outreach program that informs taxpayers about their liabilities. To accomplish this, we will provide taxpayers with clear, timely information on their tax obligations, will give taxpayers multiple ways to file their returns and pay taxes due, and will provide expedient resolution of account matters.

2. The District's revenue stream must be protected and enhanced.
Finding the most effective, least costly way to ensure that taxpayers file tax returns accurately and pay liabilities timely is crucial to protecting the District of Columbia's tax revenue stream. Therefore, OTR will encourage voluntary compliance, identify instances of non-compliance - such as failing to file, reporting assessments inaccurately, or paying liabilities tardily - and use appropriate enforcement action when necessary.

3. Financial integrity and accountability must be incorporated into tax administration.
Prompt deposit of remittances, correct posting of taxpayer accounts, and diligent maintenance of the District's overall revenue accounts are essential to financing the city's operations. In order to warrant public confidence in the tax system, it is critical that OTR exhibit a high level of personal and organizational integrity.